To Whom It May Concern:

My daughter attended the World Youth Network program in 1995. I also participated in the training as a volunteer and parent. I was in awe of the deep level of contact Trinidad and the staff made with each and every child. I saw Trin move children through tremendous resistance, anger, and isolation to opening up their hearts to such a deep level of contact with the group. The students became one big family; validating each other, honoring one another, and truly coming from a very pure and natural state of love.

Students learned to look at themselves in a new way. Instead of blaming everyone else for their problems, they learned many new skills to identify and deal with their issues. I didn't think you could teach self esteem, but I saw it grow in the3se young adults with the new information and skills that they learned.

As time passed, it became clear to me that the program offered life altering experiences to both myself and my daughter. A year later, the students came together for a WYN event. Their interaction with each other had not changed. They still cared tremendously for their fellow classmates. They shared with the group that the tools were being used at home and school. They noticed that life was more fun and not so stressful. They also reported that home-life was more peaceful and the peer issues were easier to manage.

The Life-skillls Video Program will allow more children to learn the skills that will help them throughout their growing years and beyond. My daughter and I will be participating in the program as our commitment to the community and Hawaii's future.

Sincerely,

Sheryl Sakuma
Vice President
Hawaii Business Equipment